Miracle [Import] [Limited Edition] [Original recording remastered]

Track Listings

1. Party

2. Khashoggi's Ship

3. The Miracle

4. I Want It All

5. The Invisible Man

6. Breakthru

7. Rain Must Fall

8. Scandal

9. My Baby Does Me

10. Was It All Worth It

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
Japanese remastered (2001 digital remastering) reissue of 1989 album packaged in a miniature LP sleeve, features 13 tracks. Virgin. 2004.

Tracks:

Miracle
Brahms' Lullaby
If I Could
Sleep Tight
What A Wonderful World
My Precious One
A Mother's Prayer
The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
Baby Close Your Eyes
Come To me
Le loup, la biche et le chevalier (une chanson douce)
Beautiful Boy
In Some Small Way

Amazon.com

In collaborating on Miracle, Celine Dion and her partner in baby love Anne Geddes carefully sidestepped the L-word--a smart move, considering that the songs captured here, despite their electric-blanket warmth, aren't always lullaby-like in their delivery. Though the collaboration is about babies--the liner notes to this CD provide a sneak peek at Geddes' visual wizardry available in both the expanded box set and book--Miracle is not necessarily for them. Which works out great for Celine fans who have made contact with their maternal sides. More than anything, the disc plays as a valentine to new mothers: "Le Loup, La Biche et le Chevalier (Une Chanson Douce)," "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," and John Lennon's "Beautiful Boy" get the trademark melt-away vocal treatment, causing the need to keep a box of tissues at the ready. While tenderness flows from each track as consistently as formula from a baby bottle, though, the chanteuse doesn't shy away from the passion and note-pounding that are also her trademarks. Thus, the miracle of Miracle lies not in its ability to soothe the tiny creatures it swollen-heartedly celebrates, but in its ability to set the sentiments of listeners who love them to song. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Lullaby CD review.......2007-04-07

Celine Dion does beautiful remakes of some classic lullabies and also sing new music with very deep and meaninful lyrics. This is by far the best nursery lullaby CD I've heard. It is the perfect gift for a new mom or baby shower gift.

Meh...Could live without it.......2007-03-30

The CD is OK. It's Celine so you know the singing is stellar. But in terms of variety (different tempo and melodies, etc) all the songs tend to sound the same so there is never a "climax" in the arrangement.
A better lullaby CD is "A Mother's Gift" from Carnie Wilson.

Wonderful Music! .......2007-03-28

I have enjoyed the music and Celine's beautiful voice. I would recommend this CD to anyone, especially with small children. My son (who is 15 months old) loves it and fall's asleep to it almost every night. It's delightful!

Defnitely a miracle.......2007-01-20

A beautiful voice, beautiful music, great for a baby or a mom. Makes a great gift.

Miracle-Celine Dion.......2007-01-10

Another great compilation By Celine, this album is great, I play it to my grandaughter at bedtime, and we, the adults listen to it anytime. Truly a masterpiece

Average customer rating:

Topol is best as the Papa
Love it
CP as Grandmother Tzeitel
Never Ending Joy!
Great a classic

Fiddler on the Roof
Jerry Bock , Sheldon Harnick , and Topol
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Fiddler on the Roof (Special Edition)
My Fair Lady (1964 Film Soundtrack)
The King and I (1956 Film Soundtrack)
The Music Man (1962 Film Soundtrack)
South Pacific (1958 Film Soundtrack)

ASIN: B00005OB07
Release Date: 2001-10-09

Tracks:

Prologue/Tradition/Main Title
Matchmaker
If I Were A Rich Man
Sabbath Prayer
To Life
Miracle Of Miracles
Tevye's Dream
Wedding Procession
Sunrise, Sunset
Wedding Celebration/The Bottle Dance
First Act Finale
Entr'acte
Do You Love Me?
Far From The Home I Love
Chava Ballet Sequence
The Rejection Scene
Anatevka
Finale
Any Day Now

Amazon.com

This new version of the Fiddler on the Roof soundtrack coincides with the movie's 30th anniversary (which is also celebrated by a special edition DVD). The CD is notable for several instrumental tracks by John Williams, as well as for "Any Day Now," a previously unreleased song performed by Perchik/Paul Michael Glaser (better known for his starring role in TV's Starsky and Hutch). The soundtrack is often compared unfavorably with the original 1964 cast album, in which Zero Mostel played the part of Tevye (here performed by Topol, who had been in the 1967 London production). But this CD has a lot going for it, including glossy remastering and, of course, Isaac Stern as the fiddler. In the end, whatever version you decide to pick up, Fiddler remains one of the most enduring musicals of all time. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

Topol is best as the Papa.......2007-07-15

I have other versions of CDs of "The Fiddler of the Roof" but Topol is the best and this is one of the best CDs with Topol. As far as "The Fiddler On the Roof" goes, that is a thumbs up 5 star anytime story and songs.

Love it.......2007-05-16

I had looked everywhere for this CD. I am so happy to have found the "real" Fiddler on the Roof!

CP as Grandmother Tzeitel.......2007-03-30

At first, I thought this musical was weird but then I grew to like it. It has a sad ending but the thems in the movie are really interesting. Life really is like being a fiddler on the roof. In a musical coming up at my school, I am playign the part of Grandmother Tzeitel in Tevye's dream. I am excited to play the part and I think our musical will go very well!

Never Ending Joy!.......2006-11-22

The music from Fiddler on the Roof is exciting, fun, interesting and funny! This CD is mixed with humor, music from different cultures and a wide mix of different songs. Each song is so different that I can listen to it for hours. I was surprised how enjoyable and pleasent it really is. Although...it is easy to get this music stuck in your head!

-Christian Fobian, Author of Why Christ?

Great a classic.......2005-11-08

Totally enjoyable. After a few listens you can't help but sing along.

Average customer rating:

Top CombinationT
many levels to her sound
Music for the Soul
I just can't conceive of anyone NOT love, love, LOVING this album
Ineffable

Miracle of Five
Eleni Mandell
Manufacturer: Zedtone
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Afternoon
West
The Reminder
The Good, the Bad & the Queen
Release the Stars

ASIN: B000JRYO8S
Release Date: 2007-02-06

Tracks:

Moonglow, Lamp Low
Girls
My Twin
Salt Truck
Wings in His Eyes
Make-Out King
Miracle of Five
Perfect Stranger
Dear Friend
Somebody Else
Beautiful
Miss Me

Amazon.com

With the conversational intimacy of her phrasing and the torchy romanticism of her most seductive material, Eleni Mandell sounds more than ever like a period piece throwback here. The title track, the opening "Moonglow, Lamp Low," and the closing after-hours-piano-lounge "Miss Me" evoke the sophisticated heyday of Cole Porter and the Gershwins, with saxophonist Jeff Turmes playing Lester Young to Mandell's Billie Holiday. She also displays a penchant for waltzes and lyrical anachronisms (does anybody really speak of "motor cars" these days?). Yet "Girls" and "Make-Out King" sound girlishly coquettish in comparison with such cosmopolitanism, "Salt Truck" seems sing-song and nursery-rhyme slight, and "Dear Friend" suffers from an increasingly busy arrangement. "My Twin," "Wings in His Eyes," and "Perfect Stranger" reflect Mandell's continued growth as a writer, but the album as a whole, despite generally strong production by Andy Kaulkin, suggests that she most needs an editor who can help this eclectic artist focus on what she does best. --Don McLeese

Album Description

On her sixth album, Eleni Mandell delivers a magnificent, late night, lights-low set -- her sexiest recording yet. Her conversational alto is set beautifully against the reeds (Jeff Turmes, who has backed James Harman and Badly Drawn Boy), guitar (Nels Cline of Wilco), vibes (DJ Bonebrake of X) and her longtime rhythm section of drummer Kevin Fitzgerald and bassist Ryan Feves. Produced by Andy Kaulkin and mixed by Rob Schnapf (Beck, Elliott Smith), the album is a sonic marvel. Her captivating songwriting has taken an optimistic turn, concentrating on love found instead of love lost. Already a local hero -- Los Angeles Magazine named Eleni best local singer and the LA Weekly anointed her as best songwriter -- Miracle of Five will open the world to this timeless chanteuse.

Customer Reviews:

Top CombinationT.......2007-07-14

This CD combines charming lyrics with the relaxed, sensitive singing style of Eleni Mandell and an accompaniment skillfully woven in by an outstanding group of musicians. Each song is an individual treat.

many levels to her sound.......2007-06-13

It's easy to dismiss this disc as pop or jazz or some other category on first listen, but upon second or third time round quite a few nuances appear. Girls is a good example of this, at first bubble-gummy and catchy, but later airy, multi-layered and unforgettable.
Great work.

Music for the Soul.......2007-06-02

Miracle of Five is Eleni Mandell's new album.

If you like a bluesy, sultry, country, exotic voice that is remuniscent of the sixties, with an original slant- this is the album for you.

Waited six weeks to get it locally, gave up, recieved it at my door in four days from Amazon at the same price. Am I happy? You bet.
Maureen Moore

I just can't conceive of anyone NOT love, love, LOVING this album.......2007-05-05

Loook, I take this reviewing thing seriously. Someone may choose to part with their hard-earned money based on something I might write, so I say to you -- fully cognizant of the my responsibility to you, undecided consumer -- that this is a fantsatic album and your life will be greatly enriched by purchasing it, downloading it, or borrowing your neighbor's copy forthwith.

The album is very reminsiscent of a music box -- amuisc box for women in a noir story. A music box for babes in a contemporary wood. Basically, these are lullabies for grown-ups. Wistful, insightful, haunting, and so eerily *true*. "Beautiful" is one of the real-est songs I've ever heard.

Eleni Mandell is a genius, a genius swimming in the sweet syrup of the warm and gooey sauce of awesomeness. OK, let me state at the outset that I am a big fan. I love ALL her previous albums, but Miracle of Five is now my favorite. I've always been awed by Ms. Mandell's way of mixing sharp insights with soft, visceral imagery. Her lyrics and singing are always so incredibly evocative. She also has an uncanny way of articulating and illuminating things I've thought and felt. Her music is full of wonderful melodies and hooks and resonance. Her lyrics are incredible. Her voice is nimble and expressive and sultry and smart and sassy.

"Moonglow, Lamp Low" feels like my soul's theme song. "Girls" makes me think Eleni has read my mind (again). "WIngs in His Eyes"a nd the title track perfectly express how I feel about my new sweetheart. And "Perfect Stranger" -- been there. I could go on and on.

Suffice it to say this is a great album with great songs and atmospheric music that perfectly fits her lyrics and voice. Trust me; get it. Seriously. You'll love it.

Ineffable.......2007-03-20

Listening to Eleni Mandell evokes the sense of having a real cool girlfriend on a sweet summer night.

Gonna Take a Miracle: The Best of Deniece Williams

Average customer rating:

The Best "I LOVE IT"
A True Singer Who Truely Delivered Nothing But The Best
One Stop Shopping For Niecy's Best
The Best of Deniece Williams: Gonna Take a Miracle
REVIEW

Gonna Take a Miracle: The Best of Deniece Williams
Deniece Williams
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

Quiet Storm | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Very Best of Stacy Lattisaw
Best of My Love: The Best of the Emotions
Capitol Gold: The Best of Minnie Riperton
Ultimate Collection
The Very Best of Miki Howard

ASIN: B000002ACJ
Release Date: 1996-03-12

Tracks:

Free
I Found Love
Cause You Love Me, Baby
That's What Friends Are For
God Is Amazing
Baby, Baby, My Love's All For You
When Love Comes Calling
If You Don't Believe
Silly
It's Gonna Take A Miracle
Waiting
Do What You Feel
I'm So Proud
Too Much, Too Little, Too Late
Black Butterfly
Let's Hear It For The Boy

Customer Reviews:

The Best "I LOVE IT".......2006-07-04

Deniece Williams is a great singer. One of my favorite Songs are "Cause you love me baby", almost every club I attended play that song in their club and everyone have a smile on their faces singing the song and knowing all the words when the DJ play that song and I'm young and I attend clubs where a lot of young folks are and yeah I know we dont know that much about old skool but when it comes to that song we know, a lot of young people love that song and other songs I love is "I found love", "Silly", and "Gonna take a Miracle". I maybe young (a 80's BABY) but I know a lot about old skool and I love this album.

A True Singer Who Truely Delivered Nothing But The Best.......2006-06-03

I remember hearing a few of Deniece's songs while growing up, but I didn't hear too much of her music until I got older. I haven't come across too many of her albums, but I found this `Greatest Hits' Collection to be highly enjoyable. Deniece has a unique vocal style that could change to the mood of any song. However, you have to admit that when she called herself doing high notes, she did sound like a broke Minnie Riperton. In fact, Deniece used to be on of Minnie's background singers, so go figure. Regardless, Deniece still delivered and I haven't come across one song by her that I didn't like. This is what I call music!

One Stop Shopping For Niecy's Best.......2006-04-18

'The Best of Deniece Williams: Gonna Take a Miracle' is a good collection of Niecy's best during her stint at Columbia, but it could be better if songs like 'I've Got The Nest Dance', 'You're All That Matters', 'Waiting By The Hotline', and more were included. Legacy SHOULD release an 'Essential Deniece Williams' 2 CD set because fans deserve a better compilation.

Sony should also consider releasing BOTH 'Niecy'(1982) & 'I'm So Proud' (1983) together on a special 2 for 1 disc. Note to Sony - IT WILL BE A BIG SELLER!! These albums are both classic, out of print, and only available as overpriced Japanese imports. In the meantime, I recommend that fans locate mint vinyl copies and transfer them to CD. The results are great! I also added Niecy's rare 1983 duet with Philip Bailey ('It's Our Time') as a bonus track. Come on Sony..Get with the program!

The Best of Deniece Williams: Gonna Take a Miracle.......2006-01-02

For those who have never heard of Deniece Williams, this is an excellent compilation disc to initiate you to her heavenly voice. It's a great disc that covers her secular music career as well as adding her bone chillingly wonderful gospel song, GOD IS AMAZING.

I was happy that that particular song was included because to her fans, it was the perfect way for her to tell her fans that her calling & future in music would be in the gospel realm. I also appreciated the inclusion of the magnificent BLACK BUTTERFLY - as a child, our choir always sang this song during celebrations for Martin Luther King Day so it holds a special place in my heart.

Again for those who've never heard any music from this true songbird, this is an excellent compilation to introduce you to her amazing voice. And to fans, it's an excellent addition to your collection.

REVIEW.......2005-10-23

This merchandise was received in good condition and timely. I LOVE THE CD!

Average customer rating:

The Who Classic Masterpiece AS YOU NEVER HEARD BEFORE
A Landmark Classic Now Made Even Better.
A Milestone of Early Rock!
I Love it !
The Who's classic rock opera gets a 35th birthday celebration fit for a king!

Tommy

Manufacturer: Geffen Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Supergroups | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Who's Next (Deluxe Edition)
Live At Leeds [Deluxe Edition]
My Generation (Dlx) (Dig)
Avalon
Quick One (Happy Jack)

ASIN: B0000DJZAH
Release Date: 2003-10-28

Tracks:

Overture
It's A Boy
1921
Amazing Journey
Sparks
Eyesight To The Blind (The Hawker)
Christmas
Cousin Kevin
The Acid Queen
Underture
Do You Think It's Alright
Fiddle About
Pinball Wizard
There's A Doctor
Go To The Mirror!
Tommy Can You Hear Me?
Smash The Mirror
Sensation
Miracle Cure
Sally Simpson
I'm Free
Welcome
Tommy's Holiday Camp
We're Not Gonna Take It
See Me Feel Me/Listening To You

Tracks:

I Was
Christmas (Out-Take 3)
Cousin Kevin Model Child
Young Man Blues (Version 1)
Tommy Can You Hear Me? (Alternate Version)
Trying To Get Through
Sally Simpson (Out-Takes)
Miss Simpson
Welcome (Take 2)
Tommy's Holiday Camp (Band's Version)
We're Not Gonna Take It (Alternate Version)
Dogs (Part 2)
It's A Boy
Amazing Journey
Christmas
Do You Think It's Alright?
Pinball Wizard

Customer Reviews:

The Who Classic Masterpiece AS YOU NEVER HEARD BEFORE.......2007-06-12

The Album is a masterpiece of all time rock n roll, even if this is "the less Who album" of the Who... but nevermind!
The Sound in both Stereo (from the original master tape discovered in the vault of UMG) and 5.1 (mixed by Pete Townshend himself) is great...
As you put the disc in your player you'll hear the great differences from the 1996 reissue even if you have only a "simple" CD player..
If You're a great Who fan and you a have SACD player buy ABSOLUTELY this album and enjoy it 'til the laser of your player won't work anymore...
The second disc is clearly for fans only but the quality of some track even if are demos or outtakes is very very good!!

A Landmark Classic Now Made Even Better........2006-12-26

One of the most important, groundbreaking amd influential albums in the history of rock and roll, The Who's 1969 magnum opus "Tommy", a rock opera about a deaf, dumb and blind kid who sure plays a mean pinball, is now better than ever thanks to the brilliance of SACD and DSD remastering techniques.

Every song on the cd sounds like it was recorded just yesterday. It is 100 % crystal clear, perfectly remixed and remastered. It gives you a clearer view of the story as well as a more pleasurable than ever listening experience. Pete Townshend and the people involved in this truly put their hearts into making "Tommy" better than ever.

The bonus disc is also worth it. A lot of awesome raritis. The liner notes are an interesting read, and the album itself is of course a masterpiece nobody should be without.

A Milestone of Early Rock!.......2006-09-29

"Tommy" is beyond question one of the big milestones of early rock. Musically the band were at the peak of their creativity.

All band members were obviously extremely talented musicians and both Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend were/are great singers. Apart from few exceptions like "Cousin Kevin" all songs are outstanding; and it's really great to have the whole story on one CD - compared to the old double vinyl album.

Though the storyline may seem a little weird today ( to me it always did ), there is so much great music on this album.

The second bonus CD gives a very interesting insight in the developement of some of the songs. Though the sound quality is exellent CD 2 will mainly be of interest to hard-core Who fans. None of these alternate versions are better than the ones chosen for the album, though a few come close. The studio version of "Young Man Blues" which did not appear on the original album is a nice addition too!

I Love it !.......2006-09-06

I was so blind-sided by this reissue - really. I have looked at this for a few years now, but I never picked it up. My impression of this was that it had some very good music along with some dated sounding tracks, so it wasn't a high priority. I'd been having very good luck buying hybrid SACD's even though I don't own a SACD player; the CD layers benefit greatly from the DSD mastering, making them stand head and shoulders above the latest PCM remasters (there are a few exceptions), so I decided to take the plunge.

The CD layer is stunning. I must have been sitting there with my mouth open after "Overture" began. I experienced emotion that wasn't there on previous listens to this on CD and vinyl. Yes, some of the tracks still sound dated, but most of this album is very good indeed, and this remaster is so incredible. If you own a great stereo rig, I highly recommend buying this - in fact, even if you don't have a great rig, I recommend it!

The Who's classic rock opera gets a 35th birthday celebration fit for a king!.......2006-08-13

The Who's fourth studio(and fifth overall) album Tommy was released in May of 1969.
The Tommy album by The Who was the make or break for the group because if Tommy had failed, The Who would have probably disbanded due to lack of funds despite their concerts selling out based on Pete Townshend's guitar smashing and Keith Moon's drum kit demolishing at the end of each gig.
Guitarist Pete Townshend, under the gun after I Can See For Miles failed as a single in the UK(although it was their biggest ever hit here in the US) came up with a rock opera about a deaf, dumb and blind kid named Tommy whom becomes those aforementioned things after witnessing an event as a child that traumatized him(his father killing his step-father whom he considered his father).
Originally considered to be a single length album, the band felt it didn't make sense so they expanded it into a double album and the result is one of rock's Top 10 greatest double studio albums in history(alongside other classic double albums like the then-already released Jimi Hendrix's Electric Ladyland and The Beatles' White album and would help pave the way for more classics like The Rolling Stones' 1972 masterwork Exile on Main Street, The Who's 1973 release Quadrophenia, Elton John's 1973 classic Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Genesis' 1974 masterwork The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, Led Zeppelin's 1975 classic Physical Graffiti, Pink Floyd's 1979 masterpiece The Wall and Bruce Springsteen's 1980 classic The River among many others).
Alot of classics appear on this album like the Overture, the classic Top 20 hit Pinball Wizard, Amazing Journey, the Underture(best instrumental on here which is basically a repeat of the album's other instrumental Sparks), Go to the Mirror, I'm Free, Cousin Kevin(one of bass player John Entwistle's greatest compositions), Fiddle About(about the perverted Uncle Ernie), Tommy's Holiday Camp(another excellent ditty written by drummer Keith Moon whom did an excellent rendition in the film version of Tommy in 1975) and the classic finale We're Not Gonna Take It/See Me Feel Me.
The other tracks on the album It's a Boy, 1921(You Didn't Hear It), Eyesight to the Blind, Christmas, The Acid Queen, Do You Think It's Alright, There's a Doctor I've Found, Tommy Can You Hear Me?, Smash the Mirror, Sensation, Miracle Cure, Sally Simpson and Welcome are all great pieces as well though tend to be overlooked.
The album made The Who legends for good and peaked at #4 on the Billboard chart and was their first Gold seller(eventually Platinum).
In 1996, the album was re-released as a remastered CD but used different masters for the remixed reissue.
In October of 2003(just in time for Tommy's 35th Anniversary), Geffen Records(formerly known as MCA) re-released the album as a 2-disc Hybrid SACD with the original mix on the CD layer and a killer 5.1 mix on the SACD layer and this version uses the very original tapes that were found in Universal's vault after being said that the original tapes were destroyed by Kit Lambert in a fire. As a result of the discovery of the original tapes, the sound quality is amazing on here.
Disc two has great outtakes and demos like I Was, The Who trying to record Sally Simpson with hilarious results and instrumental versions of Tommy Can You Hear Me and Tommy's Holiday Camp among many other rarities plus a cool booklet with rare photos.
Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

We had a good night jamming away.
Was It All Worth It?
ONLY FOR DIE HARD FANS
Not Bad...
If you 're new to Queen - avoid this album.

The Miracle
Queen
Manufacturer: Hollywood Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Supergroups | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Glam | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Arena Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Works
Innuendo
Hot Space
A Kind of Magic
Made in Heaven

ASIN: B000000OBN
Release Date: 1991-10-22

Tracks:

Party
Khashoggi's Ship
The Miracle
I Want It All
The Invisible Man
Breakthru
Rain Must Fall
Scandal
My Baby Does Me
Was It All Worth It
Hang On In There
Chinese Torture
The Invisible Man (12in Version)
Scandal (12in Mix)

Customer Reviews:

We had a good night jamming away........2007-07-08

This album by Queen was released in 1989. It was their first album to dispense with individual songwriting credits. All four group members are credited on all the songs, whether they actually had a hand in the writing or not. Queen's popularity in the US was way down at this point. The only single from the album to make the American pop charts was "I Want It All", which peaked at a meager #50 on the Hot 100. However, Queen remained tremendously popular in the rest of the world. Five songs from this album were hits in the UK. "I Want It All" reached #3, "Breakthru" reached #7, "The Invisible Man" peaked at #12, "Scandal" reached #25 and "The Miracle" topped out at #21. Overall, this is a very good album, although the lack of recognizable US hits may make it less popular with American listeners.

Was It All Worth It?.......2007-06-28

Although I have said before, several times, in my other Queen reviews that I prefer 70's Queen, this is their best album since Hot Space.
This album reintroduces a certain musical sophistication, lost with The Works and A Kind of Magic.

On this album,, there is the pleasing The Miracle, the superconfident I Want It All, the funky The Invisible Man, the hopeful Breakthru, the resigned Rain Must Fall, the coulourful Scandal, the laidback My Baby Does Me ,and what seems like an ode to the years the band performed and recorded, and a premonition that the end was near- Was It All Worth It?

This is no A Night at the Opera, but ultimately this is good music, and worth adding to your collection.

ONLY FOR DIE HARD FANS.......2007-06-13

I am a die hard fan and I had trouble listening to this. Freddie said he wrote disposable pop. Critics say "Hot Space" was their worst album. Well, THIS IS THEIR WORST ALBUM.

The cover art was bad enough. I was ashamed to be seen with it when I bought it. Well, I am ashamed I actually listened to this. If you have not heard any of these songs but intend to buy this, listen to "Khashoggi's Ship" and "The Invisible Man" and be prepared to laugh or cry.

"Scandal" and its remix, "The Miracle," and "Breakthrough" were the only decent songs.

If you have not listened to hot space, the album is good. It got a bad reputation because some of the songs have references to homosexuality.

Back to this album, this proves that if you write a song about stupidity and have good music to go with it, people will like it. Just ask P. Diddy. If I hear about P. Diddy's expressions one more time . . .

Not Bad..........2006-07-01

I has this on cassette (Hollywood version) and was so turned off on the first listen that I never listened again. Being the Queen completist that I am, I bought it again on compact disc, hoping it would perhaps sound better this time. It did! Some of it screams "It's the 1980s!" which is the biggest flaw of this album- the overuse of synthesizers. Party and Khashoggi's Ship are the album's weakests tracks, though the lyrics are intriguing. The title track is interesting, though a bit played out to my ears, which first heard it on Classic Queen all of those years ago. I have the original album version of I Want it All and it is a refreshing change. I really like it better than the single version. The Invisible Man has its moments, as does Breakthru (especially the grand opening). Rain Must Fall again has intriguing lyrics but isn't much to listen to. Scandal, written by Brian May, has some great power to it. My Baby Does Me isn't as bad as people make it out to be, but it is definitely a mellow track. Was it all Worth It is by far the best track of the bunch, and with some tweaking could have worked on the Innuendo album, but the synthesizers don't do it any favors.

Overall, it is worth buying and a big improvement on "A Kind of Magic" but don't be expecting anything approaching the brilliance of Innuendo.

If you 're new to Queen - avoid this album........2006-06-26

I'm a fan of Queen and they'e one of my favorite bands even after twenty plus years but this album is definitely the worst Queen album. Even Hot Space was better overall. For my money there are two good songs on this album, (Kashoggis Ship and I Want It All), and one great track (Was It All Worth It). The rest ranges from "alright" to downright embarssing. And Freddie Mercury's voice by this time had declined quite markedly.He also makes the mistake of tending to shout too much.

Things would get better with the next album Innuendo but The Miracle is clearly Queen in transition and somewhat surprisingly losing their way.

Average customer rating:

Comparison - Jochum's Set vs. Colin Davis'
Haydn's London Symphonies
This is a good bargain but I don't recommend the performance
GOOD, BUT!
Thrill of Playing/Listening to Great Symphonic Composure

Haydn: The London Symphonies, Vol. 1

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Haydn: The London Symphonies, Vol. 2
Haydn: Paris Symphonies
Bach - Mass in B minor / Argenta, Nichols, Chance, Stafford, Milner, W. Evans, Gardiner
Mozart: Piano Concertos Nos. 24 & 25
Schubert: Piano Quintet "Trout"; Mozart: Clarinet Quintet

ASIN: B0000041AQ
Release Date: 1994-10-11

Tracks:

Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 1. Allegro moderato
Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 2. Andante
Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 3. Menuetto
Symphony In C Minor, Hob. I:95: 4. Finale. Vivace
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 1. Adagio - Allegro
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 2. Adagio
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 3. Menuetto. Allegro
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:98: 4. Finale. Presto
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 1. Adagio - Allegro
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 2. Andante
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 3. Menuetto. Allegro
Symphony In D, Hob. I:104: 4. Finale. Spiritoso

Tracks:

Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 1. Adagio - Allegro
Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 2. Andante
Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 3. Menuetto. Allegretto
Symphony In D, Hob. I:96: 4. Finale. Vivace assai
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 1. Largo - Vivace
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 2. Adagio
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 3. Menuetto, Allegro
Symphony In B Flat, Hob. I:102: 4. Finale, Presto
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 1. Adagio - Allegro con sirito
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 2. Andante piu tosto allegretto
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 3. Menuetto
Symphony In E Flat, Hob. I:103: 4. Finale, Allegro con spirito

Amazon.com

Someone once commented on the "sulphurous devilishness" of Haydn's surprises in the London symphonies. But it should come as no surprise that one of the best recordings of these works is from Sir Colin Davis, whose accounts with the Concertgebouw Orchestra stand among the most exalted phonographic accomplishments of recent years. There is a Beechamesque quality to these readings, and when it comes to Haydn, that is praise indeed. They are exceptionally personable, characterful, likable interpretations, with wit, warmth, and life in every measure. All 12 symphonies are wonderfully played and very well recorded. At full price, these recordings would be a top choice; as midprice offerings, three symphonies to a disc (averaging more than 75 minutes of music each), they're a steal. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Comparison - Jochum's Set vs. Colin Davis'.......2006-05-03

Jochum and London Phil deliver the highest level of Haydn playing just like Colin Davis and Concertgebow do. I own both and tried to compare between two.

Jochum adds plenty of personal touches that decidedly grab your attention. You hear poignant romanticism or Beethoven-like roar in many places. Colin Davis, by comparison, lets the music flow naturally and makes it sound more balanced. Colin Davis sure gets a lot of help from the gorgeous Concertgebow band - silky but vivacious strings, show-stopping woodwinds, bright brass section, etc. In his set, you hear more of the orchestra than Colin Davis. I think it's the other way around in Jochum set. Concergebow's sound is more transparent and charmingly light-footed while London Phil sounds fuller and creamier without losing crispness. You get more agility and refinement from Davis set. You get more expressiveness and warmth from Jochum's.
Let me emphasize that all of the good qualities I attributed to either of the sets actually exist in both (they are inherently in Haydn's writing). It's just that some qualities are more apparent in one than the other.
As to the recording, Colin Davis set has more sparkle and vividness. It sounds more modern. Jochum's has a typical old-fashioned analogue sound in a very good way. It has plenty of natural ambience but doesn't sound muddy.
I recommend you buy both of these delightful and affordable sets. I never regretted doing so :-)

Haydn's London Symphonies.......2006-01-28

Haydn's twelve London Symphonies represent the culmination of Haydn's long and slow development as a symphonist. They remain among the greatest most varied set of symphonies ever written. Haydn composed them in two sets of six, for two lengthy trips to London in 1791 --1792 and 1794 -- 1795. The symphonies have been recorded in their entirety by many conductors, including Beecham, Scherchen,Bernstein, Jochum, and Van Karajan, but the set by Sir Colin Davis conducting the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra is justly renowned. Davis's readings are available on two two-CD sets from Phillips, each of which sell at a modest price. There is no better way for the newcomer to get to know Haydn's masterworks. The first of the Phillips volumes, which I discuss here includes three of the earlier symphonies of the group, nos. 95,96, and 98, together with the magisterial final three symphonies, nos 102, 103, and 104.

Haydn's music speaks to the beginner in music (Remember the slow movement of the "surprise" symphony, known to every child.) as well as to the most demanding listener. The London audience for which he wrote them consisted both of people who knew little of music together with highly knowledgeable and sophisticated music lovers. Haydn had the ability to please both. The London symphonies are full of memorable and simple tunes, concertante solos for many instruments, jokes, and gimmicks. But they also include great musical variety, highly original slow introductions which become deeply integrated with the body of the work, deep slow movements, great development of material, creative orchestration, and extensive use of counterpoint. The symphonies have best been described as exemplifying a "sense of grandeur". They are large-scale, serious compositions, full of ease and mastery. They are also very much products of the Enlightenment as they move from their slow and mysterious openings through to their lively, positive, and triumphant conclusions.

The earliest of the London symphonies is the Symphony no. 96 in D major sometimes called the "Miracle". This is a simpler work than most of its companions. It opens with a fanfare slow introduction followed by a lively theme. Moments to listen for include the oboe solos at the end of the introduction and in the trio of the third movement, the counterpoint in the minor key in the slow movement, and the solos for flute and violin near the end of the slow movement.

The symphony no 95 in C minor is the only one of the London symphonies in a minor key and the only one without a slow introduction. It juxtaposes major and minor key elements coming to a major, triumphal close in the first movement. The first movement consists of an angular, angry minor key opening theme, followed by a long, lyrical theme in a major key. The second movement is a theme and variation while the minuet returns to the minor. The solo cello has large roles in the two middle movement. The finale is in the major with a great deal of fugal writing.

The symphony no 98 in B flat major is together with the following symphony no. 99, on of my favorites of the first nine of these symphonies. The slow introduction is, unusually, in the minor key and it is followed by a movement of great lightness with much counterpoint. The slow movement is one of Haydn's most sublime, probably written to commemorate the death of Mozart, with echoes of the slow movement of Mozart's "Jupiter" symphony. The minuet includes a trio for wind soloists while the swirling, humorous finale includes solo passages for the violin and, at the end, for the piano. (Haydn accompanied from the keyboard during the initial performances of these works.)

The final three symphonies of the "London" set are large-scaled masterpieces, the summit of the series. They were written for performance at the Opera Hall; and Haydn took full advantage of the orchestra and accoustics available to him to say his last word in symphonic form. There is much to hear and rehear in these symphonies.

The sympnony no. 102 in B flat major opens with a slow, largo introduction for the strings followed by a fast movement with two contrasting themes and a large-scaled development. The second movement is probably Haydn's best, as it glows with feeling and romance. The finale is a perpetuum mobile, developed canonically, with a theme that is tossed continually among the various instruments of the orchestra.

The "Drum-roll" symphony no. 103, opens with the instrument for which it is named followed by a growling introduction in the lower strings. In many ways, this symphony is similar to Haydn's Oratorio, "The Creation", composed subsequent to the London symphonies, with its movement from darkness to light. Unusually, the opening introductory material returns at the conclusion of the first movement. In the minuet of this symphony, Haydn moves from some simple, rustic writing for woodwinds to an immediately following theme for the violins of great urbanity. Haydn develops his final movement from some simple material, which he uses contrapuntally and with variety.

With its combination of depth, sophistication,wit,and highest mastery, the London symphony, in D major, No. 104, is my favorite of the set. It is a large work which begins with a minor-key and solemn introduction followed by an unusually lively and triumphant opening allegro. The slow movement is song-like with a darker middle section in the minor key. The minuet again features solos for winds in the trio, but the highlight of this symphony is its finale. Over a continuous drone, the orchestra articulates a theme, possibly derived from an English street tune, and develops it thoroughly from wit to grandeur. It is an apt conclusion to Haydn's symphonic career.

This is a set that can be heard many times, with increasing pleasure and discovery. Haydn's London Symphonies are among music's lasting joys. They are beautifully performed by Sir Colin Davis and the Amsterdam Concertgebouw.

Robin Friedman

This is a good bargain but I don't recommend the performance.......2004-11-17

One of my favorite conductors, Colin Davis, is not at his best here. The Dorati and Bruggen sets are both preferable.

GOOD, BUT!.......2004-07-15

This set is good of course, but if you are looking for great performances for EACH of Haydn's 12 London symphony, you may want to buy individual discs. Here is my collection of the 12 'London' Masterpieces.

Symphony 93: Goodman/Hanover Band (Hyperion 66532)
Symphony 94: Monteux/Vienna Phil (Decca 452893-2)
Symphony 95: Britten/ECO (BBC 8008)
Symphony 96: Harnoncourt/Concg. Orchestra (Teldec/Warner 21337-2)
Symphony 97: Szell/Cleveland (Sony 67175)
Symphony 98: Jochum/LPO (DG 437 201-2)
Symphony 99: Davis/Concg. Orchestra (Phillips 442 614-2)
Symphony 100: Walter/Columbia (Sony 64485)
Symphony 101: Mackerras/St. Luke's (Telarc)
Symphony 102: Dorati/Philharmonia Hungarica (Decca 452 259-2)
Symphony 103: Kuijken/La Petite Bande (DHM 77362)
Symphony 104: Hickox/Collegium Musicum 90 (Chandos 0655)

Thrill of Playing/Listening to Great Symphonic Composure.......2003-05-17

Imagine the thrill of Haydn finally hearing his work played the outstanding orchestra of Salomon in London, and for these musicians?

What a result for us to inherit these magnificent works performed by Sir Davis and the Royal Concertgebouw recorded at such an outstanding value by Philips.

I especially love the cello part in the Minuet of Sym.95 as well as the Adiago from the 98th. How hard is it to pick and choose though from this magnificent sounds? I find myself conducting as I listen as in Sandy Bottom Orchestra with the dairy manager.

Tracks:

Symphony No. 104 In D Major 'London': Menuetto - Allegro
Harpsicord Concerto In D Major: Vivace
Symphony No. 100 In G Major 'Miltary': Allegretto
Mass No. 2 In E- Flat Major: Great Organ Mass
Symphony No. 82 In C Major 'The Bear': Vivace assai
Keyboard Sonata No. 48 In C Major: Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 45 In F-Sharp Minor 'Farewell': Allegro assai
Violin Concerto No. 1 In C Major: Allegro moderato
Allegro con spirito
Symphony No. 96 In D Major 'Miracle': Allegro
Symphony No. 96 In D Major 'Miracle': Andante
Baryton Divertimento No. 107 In D Major: Minuet and Trio
Music Clock
Trumpet Concerto In E-Flat Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 45 In F-Sharp Minor 'Farewell': Adagio
Symphony No. 82 In C Major 'The Bear': Vivace
Symphony No.11 In G Major 'Miltary': Excerpts
Philemon And Baucis: Tenor Aria 'Nemo'
Symphony No. 104 In D Major 'London': Allegro spiritoso
Horn Concerto No. 2 In D Major: Allegro
Symphony No. 101 In D Major 'Clock': Presto; Menuetto (Allegretto)
Symphony No. 94 In G Major 'Surprise': Andante
Symphony No. 96 In D Major 'Miracle': Vivace assai
Symphony No. 101 In D Major 'Clock': Andante
Symphony No. 104 In D Major 'London': Andante
Mass in D-flat Major: Gloria
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 76 No. 3 Emperor
The Creation: Chrous: 'The Heavens are Telling'
Austrian National Anthem
Cello Concerto In D Major, Hob. VIIb, No. 2: Moderato
Cello Concerto In D Major, Hob. VIIb, No. 2: Adagio
Cello Concerto In D Major, Hob. VIIb, No. 2: Allegro molto

Average customer rating:

LaBelle and Laura create magic
Laura Nyro "Gonna Take A Miracle"
Laura was a great artist
Don't Leave Before The Miracle Happens
Blast from the Past

Gonna Take a Miracle (Exp)
Laura Nyro , and Labelle
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Contemporary Folk | Live Albums | Folk | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Soul | Live Albums | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Eli & The 13th Confession (Exp)
New York Tendaberry (Exp)
The First Songs
Christmas and the Beads of Sweat
Angel in the Dark

ASIN: B000068QZR
Release Date: 2002-06-25

Tracks:

I Met Him On A Sunday
The Bells
Monkey Time/Dancing In The Street
Desiree
You've Really Got A Hold On Me
Spanish Harlem
Jimmy Mack
The Wind
Nowhere To Run
It's Gonna Take A Miracle
Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing (Live) (Bonus Track)
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman (Live) (Bonus Track)
O-o-h Child (Live) (Bonus Track)
Up On The Roof (Live) (Bonus Track)

Amazon.com

More Than a New Discovery, Eli and the Thirteenth Confession, and New York Tendaberry established Laura Nyro as one of the early 1970s' brightest and most uncompromising singer-songwriters. But just as the budding success of 1969's Tendaberry seemed to establish her persona in the public's mind, Nyro reached back to the beloved Brill Building pop, doo-wop, and '50s R&B for inspiration, extended a hand in partnership to then-down-on-their-luck soul vets LaBelle, and tossed off this loving blast from the past. Producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff (who would later formulate the vaunted Philly soul sound) were ostensibly in charge, though the voices of Nyro and LaBelle carry the day. Whether the bare-bones production harked back to the mindset of Nyro's moody Tendaberry or (as Amy Linden's new liner notes suggest) they simply ran out of time and had to finish the project, there's a sense of immediacy to the recordings that outstrips even some of the originals. Tracks like "Jimmy Mack" and "I Met Him on a Sunday" feel like they spontaneously came together around an upright piano, their rhythm section a chorus of joyous hand claps. Others, like "Desiree" and "The Wind," have a haunting, ethereal sense that's pure Nyro. This is one of the oddest collections of Nyro's career, but also one of the most joyously heartfelt. This reissue features four live bonus tracks, soulful solo covers of "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing," "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," "O-o-h Child," and "Up on the Roof," that fit the theme of the studio album to a T. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

1971 album is Nyro's only album of non-original music including 'Spanish Harlem', 'Monkey Time/Dancing In The Street' and 'Jimmy Mack'. Remastered & featuring the previously unreleased live bonus tracks 'Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing', '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman', 'O-o-h Child' & 'Up On The Roof'. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

LaBelle and Laura create magic.......2007-07-16

Pure soul. Pure Laura Nyro. God bless Gamble & Huff for putting them together.

Laura Nyro "Gonna Take A Miracle".......2007-04-01

This CD Is Just As Wonderful As I Remember It Being Over 30 Years Ago.
I Was Very Pleased Also, With How Quickly I Recieved It.
As Always A Pleasure.
Thank You,
Carol

Laura was a great artist.......2006-11-10

This CD captures the real Laura, soulful and able to deliver a tune like nobody before or since. Her song " It's gonna take a miracle" should resonate with anyone who has ever loved someone.

Don't Leave Before The Miracle Happens.......2005-12-30

Laura Nyro was stunning in every respect - singer, composer, performer. Nobody hung it all out to dry quite like Laura Nyro. Eli and the Thirteenth Confession is a landmark album, as is New York Tendaberry. This effort stands apart, a nostalgic tribute to the pop classics Nyro grew up loving.

The bare bones recording and choice of LaBelle for background vocals are both inspired decisions, making for an effect that is casual and authentic. Chilling a cappella renditions of Desiree and The Wind offer a spiritual beauty, while Monkey Time and Dancing In The Street deliver feel good funk. (Plenty of vocal gymnastics from Patti LaBelle on those two in particular.) The bonus tracks seem to be taken from a college concert and include interesting renditions of classics like Up On The Roof, Ain't Nothin' Like The Real Thing, and others.

If you are only going to own one Nyro CD, it should be Eli and the Thirteenth Confession. If you want a quirky minor masterpiece, this is for you.

Blast from the Past.......2005-12-15

If I hadn't watched 'A Home at the End of the World' I would have hardly remembered LaBelle or Nyo. As it happened, it brought back floods of memories fro mmy youth and out came also the old Carol King songs to be listened to again.

Good, that such quality cannot be beaten.

Average customer rating:

Huh.
Think before you whinge
It's The Same Liz
Not my style
Cheer down, Liz

Somebody's Miracle
Liz Phair
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Lo-Fi | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Extraordinary Machine
Liz Phair
Wildflower
Exile in Guyville
whitechocolatespaceegg

ASIN: B000AV2G2O
Release Date: 2005-10-04

Tracks:

Leap Of Innocence
Wind And The Mountain
Stars And Planets
Somebody's Miracle
Got My Own Thing
Count On My Love
Lazy Dreamer
Everything To Me
Closer To You
Table For One
Why I Lie
Lost Tonight
Everything (Between Us)
Giving It All To You

Amazon.com

Is Liz Phair apologizing? It would be easy to get that impression from the title track of Somebody's Miracle. Suddenly the singer who was once known for her jaded lyrics and liberal use of the "f" word, is throwing around different kinds of "f" words altogether. "Faith?" "Fairytale?" Once, a generation of young women turned to Phair to express their collective rage at emotionally unavailable men. Now it's all about frogs with princes inside, and her regret over fleeing relationships with a few good men. My, how times have changed.

Some tracks on this album, including "Got My Own Thing," "Why I Lie," and "Can't Get Out of What I'm into," go back to Phair's more cynical roots. (In fact, "Can't Get Out," dates back to the singer's early demos.) But it seems clear that her overall trend towards pop (exhibited on her self-titled CD from 2003) is continuing. And who can blame her? Exile in Guyville was a breakthrough, but it left her in a real bind. A decade plus later, a still-bitter Liz would probably seem tiresome and immature. A happier, hopeful Liz could be accused of going soft. Phair doesn't need her angry-girl persona to prove she has talent, but she may still need it to stand out from the crowd. After all, do we really need another pop song like "Stars and Planets" telling us "we all shine, shine, shine?" The question Somebody's Miracle raises is: can Liz Phair drop some of her attitude without losing all of her edge? --Leah Weathersby

Customer Reviews:

Huh. .......2007-06-12

Well, let's start with this: I am A HUGE Liz Phair fan (or, at least, I thought so.) I loved "Exile" and "WCSE" very much, and I intend to get Whip-smart. No matter how many times I listen to these cds, something jumps out, and sucks me in.

In "Exile," the lyrics are phenomenal, and the production is rough; a true masterpiece. It showed a ton of emotion. In "WCSE," Liz expanded her subject matter, and, while her music became a tad more accessible, the lyrics were great and the songs stay in my head. I never regret listening to either of these albums. I skipped over her self-title, because I hate pop, or at least most of it. I feel that pop isn't thought provoking, beautiful, or full of real emotion. I listen to music that does something for me, that MEANS something (no offense if you like pop.)

This album is a toss-up for me. There are plenty of dull pop songs. But then there are some songs that are quickly becoming my favorites. Her sound is good, and I don't mind if it's a bit polished. I really like her voice, despite it not being particularly outstanding. But, I have two issues. First, some of the songs are too similar in melody, and don't stand out. The other is THE LYRICS!! What on Earth happened here? Now, don't get me wrong. It's not the swears or the risque material. I miss the clever rhymes, the candid phrases, the words that stuck in your head and wouldn't go away for weeks. Who told her to rhyme the two most bland and obvious words? These songs could be a lot better if she had given it mor thought.

These are on a scale of 1-10, ten being the best
Leap of Innocence-8. It is pop, but some of the lines are really good, and hint of the old song-writing goodness. It sticks in your mind.

Wind and the Mountain-5 It's okay. It seems a little religious for my tastes. I just can't get into it.

Stars and Planets-2 I'm sorry. This is pure "everyone is wonderful" pop. Overproduced, and just like everything else, but the two comes from the actual melody not being horrible.

Somebody's Miracle-6.5-7 I like the chorus, and I find myself humming it a lot. not the best verses, but you take what you can get.

Got my Own Thing-7 There are some clever lyrics, and I like the beat, but it loses some of its appeal after only a few listens.

Count on my Love-3 Once again-pure pop. The uplifting message is just a little too picture perfect. I like the one pat where she sings the chorus, and all that accompanies it is a twinkling melody of a single guitar.

Lazy Dreamer-3 Pop. One or two good lines, but begging for radio play, and just like anything else already clogging the airwaves.

Everything to Me-7.5 I like this song a lot. The lyrics are frank, like in "WCSE." I also like the melody. Catchy.

Closer to You-6.5 I like the slow, more relaxed quality, like Uncle Alvarez. The lyrics are starting to get back up to where they were on her first three albums. It is a little too sweet for me.

Table for One-10 This is classic Phair, with the low-fi vibe and the great verses. Sad, depressing, stripped-down. It reminds me of "Glory" from "Exile." A great song, and my favorite on the album.

Why I Lie-9 Back with the biting lyrics, a song that energises you. I love it.

Lost Tonight-1 Dreadful.

Everything (between Us)-7.5 I like it. The melody is good, and the singing is faster. I like the chorus, and the lyrics are solid, and are reminiscent of "WCSE"

Giving it all to You- 5-6.5 Pretty good. The pace is good, but the lyrics leave something to be desired. A tad poppy.It seems a tad bland.

Can't Get Out of What I'm Into-8 I NEED to get this off iTunes-I can't believe she took it off the cd. It's really good, probably because it's from pre-Exile.

Overall, the really good songs make this worth getting. If you are like me, and hate pop, just skip over the pop, and it leaves a good twenty minutes of pretty darn good Liz Phair.She has matured, but we can still love her. Perhaps her next release will be another great. I respect that artists can change, so more power to her.

Think before you whinge.......2007-05-21

This is a really good record. Listen to it as many times and with as much heart as you listened to Exile in Guyville, then whinge freely, o you hipsters of lamentation. It's lousy with great, if less strident, hooks and smart,spot-on lyrical moments. It does sound really different; lo fi Liz is gone forever, but we're all making rent and we like it. And to whoever wrote the Amazon blurb (brace yourself, this is boring but important), twitting her for reminding us that "we all shine, shine, shine." She, or the lyric, is acknowledging that some of us kick out our own light but mostly we just reflect it. Lovely, modest, accurate, becoming-a-grownup language. We need more of this voice, folks. We might just need Liz to spank us until we admit we have a problem.

It's The Same Liz.......2007-03-18

I get bemused when critics write that Liz Phair has sold out or gone soft. The poor woman apparently isn't allowed to grow up or mature. Some writers and fans want her to eternally remain their caricature of the twentysomething alt-rock sex object. Well, if you are willing to meet "Somebody's Miracle" halfway you will find its the same old Liz of her earlier great albums, with more experience and wisdom. There's the same witty, self-deprecating lyrics in songs like "Lazy Dreamer" and "Why I Lie." There's the same hard-rocking, off-kilter melodies and rhythms, albeit with a touch more production. And there's Liz's endearingly rough vocals, which always crawl inside my head and stay there. Even if this record was as misguided as its detractors say it is (which it isn't by a long shot), a Liz Phair record is a rare event and always an occasion for celebration. And when she sings, "I'm praying for it", I, for one, believe her.

Not my style.......2007-01-08

I just couldn't listen to the whole CD. Kind of a disappointment from her last cd "Liz Phair." That CD was great...this one not so much.... I purchased this cd as a gift to someone (without hearing it), and they, too, were disappointed.

Cheer down, Liz.......2007-01-07

Liz Phair is at her best when she's angry, depressed, and horny. Unfortunately, most of SOMEBODY'S MIRACLE finds her as perky and chaste as a church youth group leader. There's exactly one excellent track on the album: "Table For One", a tale of desperate alcoholism that stands head and shoulders above all the other midtempo pop numbers that surround it. Of course, midtempo pop has its charms, and several of the songs are above average. The "best of the rest" is probably "Why I Lie", a catchy ditty with a cheerfully unlikeable narrator. Other highlights are "Wind And The Mountain", an ultimately uplifting anthem with good imagery and good lines, "Leap Of Innocence", which trades in gentle nostalgia while holding faint hope for the future, and "Everything (Between Us)", a velvety portrait of intimacy between longtime partners. The lead single, "Everything To Me", starts promisingly, but nosedives into an utterly hackneyed chorus. ("Would you take the time to catch me if I fall?") Most of the rest is just drearily ordinary verse-chorus-verse pop, and maybe it's not fair (uh, no pun intended) to take Liz to task for such bland songwriting, but she proved on EXILE IN GUYVILLE that she could be both tuneful and breathtakingly original; it's hard to see her current output as anything but a giant leap backwards.

Not only were the song structures on EXILE and other early albums fresh, the subject matter was daring and the lyrical attack unique. That's another place where SOMEBODY'S MIRACLE falls down badly -- the songs on this album are thick and sticky with cliches, and their themes (with the exception of "Table For One") as unthreatening as could be. In fact, I believe this is the first Phair album where there's nary a swear word to be heard. Not that cursing automatically makes for a great album, of course, but the difference is emblematic of how devoted Phair seems to playing it safe nowadays. It's almost as if her songwriting is aging backwards -- while her first few albums were perfect soundtrack material for the lives of twenty- and thirty-somethings, her last album seemed more aimed at 17-year-olds, and most of MIRACLE wouldn't be out of place on a tweener's stereo. Maybe an album of children's songs is next.

Ah, I'm being cruel. But what's true is this: I've been a Phair fan since the beginning, and SOMEBODY'S MIRACLE is probably the last album of hers I'll buy unless I hear that she's decided to be an artist again rather than just a craftswoman.

Music Review:

Music Review

Music Review

1. Party
2. Khashoggi's Ship
3. The Miracle
4. I Want It All
5. The Invisible Man
6. Breakthru
7. Rain Must Fall
8. Scandal
9. My Baby Does Me
10. Was It All Worth It